Sen. Tim Johnson's Stroke

The AP is reporting that Sen. Tim Johnson, Democrat of South Dakota, had a stroke today while conducting a phone interview with reporters. AP raises the prospect of Johnson having to step down and So. Dakota's Republican Governor, Mike Rounds, appointing a Republican in his stead, thereby making the Senate split 50-50.

Before anyone on the right starts to celebrate the intervention of God spoiling Chuck Schumer's squeaking victory in November's Senate elections, let's consider the medical possibilities. The AP story reports that Johnson stuttered while on the phone, not the sign of a massive stroke. Presumably he was immediately rushed to the hospital where they would no doubt have administered the superior clot busting drugs now available. Surely he will receive the most up to date treatment and rehabilitation available.

Based on this information, it seems most likely that Johnson will be able to return to his office within a few months. His resignation seems highly unlikely to me.